Aron said: The Nine Signature is an aurally and visually inviting loudspeaker that, by pretty much any measure, has a lot to offer. Typically, “try before you buy” is invoked as a warning. With the Nine Signature, I recommend you read the phrase more literally: Listen to these before you buy anything else -- you just might find the perfect balance you’re looking for on your very first try.

Doug said: I can recommend the Polymer MKS to anyone who can afford to spend $42,000 for a pair of speakers, is willing to take a chance on a lesser-known brand, and is searching for its unique type of construction, appearance, and, of course, sound. The MKS is the kind of speaker that can make a little-known company very well known. Very quickly.

Jeff said: All in all, the Rockport Technologies Atria is the best speaker I’ve auditioned at its price. It flat-out slays some very competent, high-profile contenders costing thousands more. And you can revel in the fact that when you take a pair home, you’re getting something fine-tuned and micro-inspected by Mr. Rockport himself. What a great price for a loudspeaker that easily transcends mere competence and enters the realm of the special.

Doug said: I believe that the Olympica III is an example of exactly what Sonus Faber stands for today: Italian-flavored build quality and styling combined with a signature sound that audiophiles the world over can appreciate. For those who want a speaker that thrills the eyes as much as the ears, Sonus Faber’s Olympica III gets my highest recommendation.

Jeff said: The Triangle Magellan Cello is a well-built, beautifully finished speaker that made music come alive in my room. It can play loud with very little power, and can provide a visceral listening experience for those who prefer a close perspective on the music. The Cello can easily do double duty in your home theater -- it has wide dynamic range, and can instantly provide that elusive jump factor that some audiophile speakers just can’t.